Cranial Electrical Stimulation, or CES

   Cranial Electrical Stimulation uses machines that has sensors which are placed under your ears to send a minute electrical impulse. These are used as a primary anxiolytic and anti-depressive therapy, as well as complimentary treatment for pain with an emphasis on treatment of the brain. All you feel is a slight tingling sensation on the skin. What this does is trick the brain to release serotonin which helps relieve anxiety, tension, and the feeling of being "on edge."

   Research on using what is now referred to as cranial electrotherapy stimulation (CES) for treatment of anxiety began in the Soviet Union during the 1950's, its primary focus being the treatment of sleep disorders, hence its initial designation as "electro-sleep." Treatment of insomnia was soon overshadowed, however, by psychiatric application for depression and anxiety. Since then, it has been referred to by many other names, the most popular being transcranial electrotherapy (TCET) and neuro-electric therapy (NET).

   You don't have to be "sick" or "stressed-out" to use CES and realize its benefits. CES is a life-enhancing instrument of potential value to everyone. Its uses are wide ranging. Some people use it as an adjunct to meditation practice each morning. Others during peak stressor moments that hit unexpectedly in the course of a day. Who hasn't experienced those times when we are about to "lose it?" Putting the unit on in these situations even just briefly--perhaps for as little as ten minutes-- can help curb that anxiety and serve as a reminder that one needs to be with ones self in a different way.